Steelers Now
The Miami Dolphins have informed veteran cornerback Mike Hilton of his release, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The Dolphins signed Hilton on July 26.
Hilton began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent in 2017. He eventually landed on the Pittsburgh Steelers, with whom he established himself as one of the best slot corners in the league. In 2021, Hilton signed a four-year, $24 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The 31-year-old proved he still has some gas left in the tank in 2024 while recording 73 tackles, one interception and five passes defensed.
After a successful four-year run in Cincinnati, the Bengals opted not to re-sign him this offseason. Still, Hilton proved he could play at a high level, earning a 75.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024, ranking 22nd among 222 qualified cornerbacks.
It will be interesting to see if Hilton catches on with another team. At 31, age could be a concern for many clubs.
In June, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox floated the possibility of a Hilton reunion in Pittsburgh.
“Hilton spent his first four seasons in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers appear to be all-in on the 2025 season after signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers. They should be interested in adding corner depth for the upcoming campaign, and Hilton would be an upgrade over second-year slot corner Beanie Bishop Jr,” Knox wrote.
At the time, it seemed like a move that would make sense, as Beanie Bishop’s inconsistencies became more apparent as the season wore on last year. However, Brandin Echols has really emerged as valuable option for the Steelers in the slot. All-Pro Jalen Ramsey also is expected to be utilized in the slot.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Dolphins Cut Former Steelers CB
